Computer Science & IT courses

About Bachelor Of Science In Computer Science in University of Canterbury

When people think of Computer Science they often just think of programming, but there are many more aspects to the field, including interaction design, communications and networks, software design, computer security, information systems, big data, machine learning, graphics, operating systems, educational systems, artificial intelligence, and embedded systems (processors that are embedded in everything from mobile phones to cars). All of these areas are experiencing rapid growth both in Aotearoa New Zealand and internationally, and there is a strong demand for Computer Science graduates.

Computer Science is about helping people do their work efficiently and effectively by analysing needs and constructing appropriate solutions. It goes way beyond programming, as it is about knowing how to design systems that are fast, usable, reliable, secure, scalable, and make a positive impact on society and our environment.

Computer Science students learn techniques to tackle these challenges for applications as diverse as monitoring the condition of patients in hospitals to designing educational games for smart phones.

Why study Computer Science at UC?

• UC is located in Waitaha Canterbury – the 'Silicon Plains' of Aotearoa New Zealand, where there are dozens of large, hi-tech companies employing UC graduates. Further afield, our graduates are in demand overseas and many come up with an idea for a product while studying, going on to become business owners and employers themselves.
• UC is acknowledged as a leader in Computer Science education in Aotearoa. It is the home of the award-winning Computer Science Unplugged project, and the internationally recognised Intelligent Computer Tutoring group. Several members of staff have awards for their work as computer science educators.
• We have a vibrant student community that encourages meeting up with like-minded students through clubs, including CompSoc and Women in Technology clubs. There is a good interface with industry, including an annual careers fair where students meet a host of employers.

Career opportunities

There is a strong demand for graduates who are qualified in Computer Science, particularly those who combine technical skills with good communication skills and teamwork ability. Waitaha Canterbury's leading-edge IT sector is facing a shortage of qualified graduates, meaning that UC-qualified Computer Science graduates are in high demand.

Many employment opportunities exist with organisations that run large computer-based systems, such as finance companies, airline industries, government departments, state-owned enterprises, consulting companies, and computer organisations themselves. Work with these organisations often involves international travel opportunities. Many of our students start up their own software companies, and end up being employers rather than employees.

Apart from a professional career in computing, a degree in Computer Science can be used as a good basis for a career in the many areas in which computer systems are applied. Graduates are employed in fields including education, computer forensics, embedded systems and computer graphics, and in a variety of positions including software engineer, programmer, analyst, computer consultant, webmaster, internet developer, GIS analyst, games developer, and computing tutor.

Class 12th: 75%

Approved English tests

UC recognises the following English Language tests and courses:

• International English Language Testing System Academic (IELTS Academic)
• Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-Based Test (TOEFL iBT)
• Test of English as a Foreign Language Paper-Based Test (TOEFL PBT)
• CCEL English for Academic Purposes Level 2 (EAP Level 2)
• Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE)
• Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE)
• Pearson Test of English (Academic) - PTE
• New Zealand Certificate in English Language (NZCEL)

APPROVED ENGLISH TESTS

• IELTS-   Academic with an average score of 6.0, with a minimum of 5.5 in reading, writing, listening and speaking
• TOEFL iBT    -Total minimum score of 80, with at least 19 in reading, writing and listening. Please note UC only accepts TOEFL iBT scores from a single test date, not MyBest scores.
• TOEFL PBT-    With a minimum score of 550 and TWE with a minimum score of 4.5
• CCEL EAP-    Level 2 with a minimum C+ grade
• CAE or CPE -    minimum score of 169 with at least 162 in reading, writing, listening and speaking
• Pearson Test of English (Academic)    PTE with an overall score of 50 and no PTE communicative skills score below 42
• NZCEL-    Level 4 - Academic endorsement

University of Canterbury Highlights

University of Canterbury Tuition fee

New Zealand Living Expenses

You'll require between $20,000 and $25,000 a year ($380–480 per week) for housing/rent, food, transportation, phone bills, internet usage, and entertainment, in addition to your tuition and insurance fees. The average living expense will be the same for everyone, regardless of their tuition or course price. Please keep in mind that these are only suggestions; the Immigration New Zealand requirement is $15,000 per year including return travel or an additional $2,000.

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